FAQ

What Can I Expect?

Can you help me with my claim? What insurance companies do you work with?

Yes! We work with all insurance companies so just bring your claim number and the name of your contact person. We will take it from there to ensure your auto body repair claim is processed in a timely manner.

Do you offer towing?

Yes.

What happens after I drop my car off?

We will complete a thorough inspection of the damage, prepare a preliminary estimate of repair and coordinate any needed inspections with the insurance company. Once the estimate is completed, we will contact you to discuss the details of the repair.

How long will it take for my auto body repair? How do I find out repair status?

The time required for auto body repairs depends on how much damage has been inflicted and the availability of replacement parts. However, our data shows we generally fix most cars in less than a week. Your customer service agent will call you regularly about the status of your auto body repair.

What kind of results can I expect?

Expect only the very best results. Our motto is “bringing it back to new for you”. We do that using advanced tools and equipment with well-trained technicians who are I-CAR and ASE certified. Your vehicle will look better than it did before the auto body repair.

Repair Questions

Do you use OEM parts?

Telesis recommends the use of only OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts.

How do you match vehicle color? What kind of paint do you use?

Today’s paint finishes are complex and high tech. We use computerized paint mixing equipment to blend PPG Automotive Paint, a premium paint product, and match it perfectly to your vehicle color.

How soon may I wash my car after the completed auto body repair?

Each newly applied auto body paint job is baked using high heat for a shiny factory-like finish, but it takes two weeks for the paint to fully cure, or dry, all the way down. You may wash the vehicle but do not wax it for at least two weeks.

How do you dispose of your waste?

Telesis takes environmental responsibility seriously and we comply with local, state and federal requirements for pollution prevention. We use, reuse or recycle waste onsite whenever possible. Hazardous waste is collected and shipped to government-regulated collection centers for proper treatment and safe disposal.

What is your warranty for the auto body repair?

When you choose Telesis for your auto body repair, we warrant body and paint work for the entire time you own the vehicle. See our guarantee.

Insurance Questions

Can I choose where my car is repaired?

Yes, you have the right to select the auto body repair facility of your choice for an auto accident repair. Many insurance companies will suggest that you select from their list. Or, you can simply bring your car to Telesis. There is no law that requires you to get more than one estimate. On the other hand, you have the right to get as many comparison estimates as you need to make an informed decision about your auto body repair options.

I have full insurance coverage, and/or the accident wasn’t my fault. Why do I have to pay a deductible?

When you purchase insurance, the deductible represents the amount you are responsible for paying toward any covered loss. The insurance company will pay for the cost of auto body repair minus your deductible.

While my car is in for repair can I have additional work done?

Yes, we are happy to provide you with an estimate for any additional work you may want done.

I have full coverage auto insurance; does that include rental car reimbursement?

No. Full coverage insurance is generally comprehensive and collision coverage. Insurance on your personal vehicle may extend to a rental vehicle, so check with your insurance provider to see if you are covered for rental car reimbursement.

When do I pay the deductible?

The deductible is collected by Telesis when you come to pick up your vehicle, after we’ve completed the auto body repair. Forms of payment include Visa, Mastercard or Cash.

What does it mean if my vehicle is a “total loss”?

This means it is not cost-effective to have the vehicle repaired, based on the severity of the damages sustained.

What happens when my vehicle is deemed a “total loss”?

Your insurance provider has their specialist run a local market evaluation specific to the make, model, year, condition and mileage of your damaged vehicle. You will be contacted with the results of the vehicle valuation, including replacement cost, tax and license fees. When you agree to the assessment, your insurance company will pay you off for the vehicle and pay any charges already incurred for auto body repairs at the shop. You will remove any personal items and sign off ownership papers (the “pink slip”). A company working for the insurance provider picks up your vehicle and eventually, it is sold at auction to a salvage yard.

Do I need to report my accident to the DMV?

California state law requires an SR-1 form be completed if there are damages or injuries over $1,000 in any auto collision. This form is available from your insurance provider or local Department of Motor Vehicles office.